Guido Stauffer’s drawings mimic the texture and history of the granite mountains he calls home.
Guido was born in Giubiasco, Switzerland and grew up near Yosemite, California. He made a name for himself as a builder crafting artfully designed custom residential homes and commercial buildings. He was content to express himself through his trade until he visited Sao Paulo, Brazil in the mid-nineties. There he was inspired by the bold tattoo and large scale street art he found himself immersed in. He adored the unique high contrast style of the Brazilian art and begin to express his artistic visions through drawing.
When he returned home to Yosemite he decided to open a tattoo shop to surround himself with the tattoo art and culture he loved. He would create custom adaptations for clients from the flash art that covered the walls. However, he soon discovered he had a true talent for translating the client’s vision into compelling custom tattoos and began replacing the flash on his walls with custom designs of his own.
Guido often found himself captivated by the process of creation. He took every opportunity he could to draw. He indulged in late night sketch sessions after the tattoo parlor closed and before he headed out in the early morning to work construction. He often became enthralled in the process, working non-stop for hours without noticing the night had passed as he sketched. Soon drawing became a part of his lifestyle.
Guido has spent the last 7 years perfecting his coveted style and exploring the subjects that surround him. His drawings begin with thick 140 lb. 100% cotton watercolor paper which provides him a strong canvas with texture which lends itself to his unique technique. He utilizes a combination of jet black India ink, colored ink, pencil and occasionally water color to produce stunning drawings in a style reminiscent of pointillism.
After outlining the drawing in ink Stauffer begins the intricate process of creating detail by applying thousands of dots and fine lines using varying pressure to produce an array of shades. By masterfully building up the volume of dots and lines Guido is able to recreate the images in his mind ranging from the abstract to photo realistic. He is inspired by the breathtaking natural phenomenon and rich history of Yosemite Valley.
The Green Office Furnishings Gallery is currently exhibiting a selection of Stauffer’s work, including originals, print reproductions, and one of a kind stone drawings. Come by the gallery to check out his work or come meet the artist himself during this month’s ArtHop Thurday November 20, 2014 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
To purchase a piece, please contact Guido Stauffer at 559-683-2410 or by email at: guido.stauffer@gmail.com.
